Atemoya
Annona atemoyafam. Annonaceae
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Pl. A5EA — Annona atemoya
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IOverview
Overview
Atemoya, scientifically known as Annona atemoya, is a medium-sized tree native to Central America and the southern Gulf Coast of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12 and can grow up to 8 meters tall. Atemoya is known for its edible fruit, which combines the flavors of both cherimoya and pineapple. One distinctive feature of this tree is its ability to produce a sweet, aromatic fruit that is enjoyed by many.
Quick answers
What is Atemoya?
Atemoya, scientifically known as Annona atemoya, is a medium-sized tree native to Central America and the southern Gulf Coast of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Atemoya thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during the growing season. The plant can grow up to 8 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for warmer climates. Propagate through seeds or grafting.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Atemoya for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Atemoya.
- 1
What you'll need
A healthy Atemoya sapling or seedling.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, and heavy textures.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the ground or a large pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging. Keep in partial shade if possible.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering during dry periods, and light pruning for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly in winter to maintain shape; harvest fruit when ripe, indicated by color change.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting pruning, and not providing enough support.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The atemoya fruit is the main edible part of this plant. It can be eaten raw, offering a sweet and juicy treat. The fruit is often consumed fresh but can also be used in various dishes such as smoothies or desserts. Skip the preparation details for now; focus on these basic uses.
Other uses:Pest controlRootstock
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
15 native · 15 introduced
Distribution
15 native · 15 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 15 native· 15 introduced
Asia4 regions
introduced (4)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndia
Americas10 regions
native (8)BelizeColombiaCosta RicaEl SalvadorGuatemalaHondurasNicaraguaVenezuela
introduced (2)BahamasBolivia
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Cabo Verde
Broader regions
native:Mexico Central, Mexico Southwest, Mexico Northeast, Panamá, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Gulf
introduced:Cook Is., Christmas I., Cayman Is., Caroline Is., Brazil Southeast, Brazil Northeast, Andaman Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
7 related
See also
7 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Annonaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Annonaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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